Koma Kulshan chapter Washington Native Plant Society field trips are generally free and open to the public. Exceptions are noted in the trip descriptions.
Saturday, March 28, 2026, 9:00am – 5:00pm
Deception Pass Park
Explore one of the best sites for early season wildflowers on the short of the Salish Sea at Deception Pass State Park. We’ll ramble across the meadows on Pass Island where the grass widows (Olysynium douglasii) and camas (Camassia quamash) should be blooming. Examine Douglas-fir (Pseudotsuga menziesii) male and female cones, see red-flowering currant (Ribes sanguineum) clinging to the cliffs just above the splash zone, and see if the first precocious blossoms of harsh paintbrush (Castilleja hispida) are showing. Maybe even a checker lily (Fritillaria affinis) under the trees. Then we’ll head over to West Beach where we should see diminutive Claytonia exigua ssp. exigua in the sand. What else might we find?
Mark Turner (mark@turnerphotographics.com, 360-671-6851) is leading.
Meeting Location: Fairhaven west side park & ride to carpool, leaving at 9 am and returning around 5 pm. You’ll need a Washington Discover Pass for parking. Dress for the weather and bring your lunch and water.
June 13, 2026, 8:00am – 4:00pm
Marine Algae and Ecology of Point Whitehorn
Marine Algae and Ecology of Pt. Whitehorn. We will approach the Point from the Birch Bay side, about 3 miles of beach walking, total. The journey through eelgrass meadows should be as rewarding as the destination. Rubber boots, field guide, snacks, water, hand-lens, hand towel; all recommended; and ANTICIPATE MUCH COOLER, BREEZY, conditions than in your garden. All knowledge levels and backgrounds are welcome. The theme will be partly instructional, more interpretative; algae as food, art, biology, ecology; bring your questions. Since wiggly animals are bound to get our attention, that is the ecology part. An algae list is provided; bring whatever field guide you may own and like. Much more detailed information will be provided to registrants. We meet at S.W. corner of Birch Bay State Park near the boat ramp and last toilet facility at 8AM; Discover Pass required for parking there.
Bob Lemon and Izzi Lavallee will lead up to 10 participants. Required pre-register (or questions) with Bob at lemprev@alphahunt.com or text only at (360) 378-2657.
Previous field trips are listed on their own page in case you’re curious about where the Koma Kulshan chapter has explored in previous seasons.